This neighborhood east of downtown is shaping up to be a prime spot for small businesses to expand, thanks in part to the revitalization of Donelson Plaza. The mixed-use hub is located in the commercial heart of the community + a new Donelson library branch under construction will be its centerpiece.
Let’s meet four restaurants (you already know and love them) expanding to the neighborhood over the next year.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Opening: Anticipated late October at 2717 Lebanon Pk. | Edley’s is no stranger to expansion with locations in 12 South, East Nashville, and Sylvan Park — Lenox Village and Berry Farms coming soon.
What the biz is saying: “We are Nashville through and through, and treat everyone who walks through the door like an old family friend. Donelson is a neighborhood that practices just that, and we look forward to continue working to become deeply rooted in the community.”
Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen
Opening: Anticipated fall 2022 at 2619 Lebanon Pk. | Nicoletto’s, founded by brothers Ryan and Danny Nicoletto, serves fresh pasta daily at locations in East Nashville and Hillsboro Village. The forthcoming location is described as being “small in stature, but mighty in people, pasta, and community.”
What the biz is saying: “Located in the heart of Danny’s adoptive neighborhood of Donelson, this location is the smallest thing we’ve ever thought up. Big on the inside with all the fresh pasta, salads, and sandwiches that you love but small on the outside (though we will have a ton of parking available).”
HiFi Cookies
Opening: 2023 at Donelson Plaza | This East Nashville cookie shop boasts treats named after musicial greats. Create your own “mixtape” or order “the hits” with top-selling cookies like the Bowie, Marvin, Etta, and Johnny.
What the biz is saying: “Our second spot is double the size of our current under 800-sqft space... We plan to expand our ice cream program, increase shipping options, and have cookie classes for the kiddos.”
Bagelshop
Opening: 2023 | Bagelshop opened in spring 2021 inside Fairlane Hotel + serves up hand-rolled, kettle-boiled + freshly-baked bagels daily.
What the biz is saying: “Donelson has always felt like the right move for us as it is home to our family, and a fantastic growing area of our beautiful city. There’s so much heading this way and we are happy to join the growing list of new businesses opening over here.”
